Metropolitan Rostislav of the Czech Lands and Slovakia emphasized the importance of Orthodox unity in Georgia

Rostislav, Primate of the Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia, took part in the celebrations marking the 1,700th anniversary of the proclamation of Christianity as the state religion of Georgia. According to the Orthodox Times, the head of the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia emphasized the fundamental importance of a shared faith and spiritual heritage for strengthening the unity of Orthodox Christians around the world.

Speaking at Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, Metropolitan Rostislav recalled that the adoption of Christianity in 326 during the reign of King Mirian III was a turning point that shaped Georgia’s national identity and served as a pillar of strength for the people during times of severe trials. The hierarch paid special tribute to Saint Nina, Equal to the Apostles, whose missionary work led the country to the faith.

In his speech, Metropolitan Rostislav drew a parallel between the spiritual paths of the two nations, mentioning the role of Saint Ludmila in the spread of Christianity in Bohemia. As a sign of unbreakable spiritual bonds, His Eminence presented Patriarch Shio of Georgia with an icon containing a relic of Saint Ludmila. ““Despite our geographical distance and different historical experiences, in Christ we are always close to one another,” he emphasized.

At the conclusion of his visit, the metropolitan expressed his hope that the intercession of Saints Nina and Ludmila would help strengthen fraternal relations between the Churches and inspire the younger generation to remain faithful to Christian ideals in the modern world.